Nurses' perception of risk factors for infusion phlebitis: A cross-sectional survey

ObjectiveThe aim of the present study was to investigate Chinese nurses' perception of risk factors for phlebitis.MethodsA convenience sample of hospital nurses was recruited in Beijing, China. Data were collected using a demographic information questionnaire and a questionnaire measuring nurses' perception of risk factors for infusion phlebitis.ResultsIt was found that knowledge of risk factors for infusion phlebitis was incomplete, even among experienced nurses in the study participants. A high rate of incorrect answers to questions about the pH of fluid (89.9%), gauze or polyurethane catheter dressings (79.1%), and steel needles for drug infusion (76.3%) was observed.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that nurses should be trained about the risk factors for infusion phlebitis.